Rawrrrrr!

By now we all know that I'm not the best at regular blogging. Still, to my utmost surprise I made it to the list of Top 100 Dressmaking Blogs and Websites for Dressmakers, Tailors and Custom Sewers. There are so many amazing and bloggers listed there so go and have a look if you need some sewing inspiration. The super talented Leimomi, a fellow member part of WSBN (Wellington Sewing Bloggers Network) is listed there as well - well done us!

So to celebrate I decided to write a blog post! How very fitting, right? The subject is not too exciting though - my millionth version of Astoria top with altered neckline and short sleeves.  I also extended it by about 15 cm so I could wear it with jeans. I don't think I will ever stop sewing Astorias, it's one of these patterns that just keep giving!

The best part of this T-shirt is that it's covered in dinosaurs! The fabric can be found at good old Spotlight. Unfortunately the fabric quality leaves much to be desired. It will probably not last long but I am going to enjoy every minute of wearing it!

Also, since I don't post here too often you can follow me on Instagram and see all the sewing, cooking, travelling and other silly-billy things!

Snow white Astoria

Astoria is one of these patterns that needs no introductions - it seems that everyone has made at least one, I am no exception. In fact I made 5 of them (one already retired) but only one made it to the blog! Don't worry, I will catch up!

Astoria is supposed to be boat-neck cropped top but that doesn't really suit me much. I have modified the pattern to have shallow crew neckline and extended front and back pieces by 5 cm. It's still a bit short but works well with skirts and higher jeans. The sleeves are hemmed with triple zigzag stitch.

The fabric came from one of the fabric sales. It's some sort of poly-cotton knit with a nice texture. Easy to sew and  has nice recovery.  

The photos were taken at Castlepoint on the east coast of the North Island. Such an amazing place! New Zealand will never stop dazzling me with its beauty!

Astoria

In attempt of being sensible and fill in the gaps in my wardrobe I decided to make a few tops. First in line was Astoria from Seamwork Magazine. I liked it from the moment I saw the magazine cover - simple but versatile design that  included cropped length and high neck.

Unfortunately high necks don't work for me - they make me look awful. I simply changed the neckline to  V-shape. It was a very quick make - took me less than an hour to finish it. The shoulder seams were shortened by 1,5 -2 cm (I can't remember exactly but it's my standard adjustment) and reinforced with clear elastic. My V-neck finish is still not perfect but it looks ok.

The fabric came from The Fabric Store remnant bin. Its some sort of cotton knit in that amazing shade of blue that I love so much! I failed to notice slight variation in colour and my waistband is in a different shade!

I'm going to assume that the terrible back view wrinkles are cause by trying to get lots of photos done before having to leave the house therefore putting clothes on without properly adjusting them ;) I really like this top, especially combined with high-waisted pencil skirts.

You can see the color difference here